Lipomatosis

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD's weight loss doctor NYC
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Lipomatosis
Mediastinal Lipomatosis
Synonyms	Diffuse lipomatosis
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Fatigue, pain, cosmetic concerns
Complications	Compression of organs, nerve entrapment
Onset	Varies
Duration	Chronic
Types	Multiple symmetric lipomatosis, Dercum's disease, Madelung's disease
Causes	Genetic predisposition, obesity, alcohol use disorder
Risks	Family history, metabolic syndrome
Diagnosis	Physical examination, imaging studies
Differential diagnosis	Lipoma, liposarcoma, obesity
Prevention	Weight management, alcohol moderation
Treatment	Surgical removal, liposuction, dietary changes
Medication	Analgesics, corticosteroids
Prognosis	Variable, generally good with treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

CT Scan of Mediastinal Lipomatosis

Planisferio Map

Lipomatosis is a medical condition characterized by the growth of multiple lipomas in the body. Lipomas are benign tumors composed of adipose tissue, or body fat. Lipomatosis is not a form of cancer, but the lipomas can cause discomfort and may require treatment.

Causes

The exact cause of lipomatosis is unknown, but it is believed to be related to an abnormality in fat metabolism. Some cases have been linked to genetic factors, as the condition often runs in families. Other potential causes include obesity, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of lipomatosis is the presence of multiple lipomas. These are typically soft, round, and movable under the skin. They can vary in size and may be painful if they press on nerves or restrict movement. Other symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, and in rare cases, neurological symptoms such as seizures or cognitive impairment.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of lipomatosis is typically made through a physical examination and medical history. Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the size and location of the lipomas. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for lipomatosis is typically focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This can include pain management, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical removal of the lipomas. However, surgery is generally reserved for cases where the lipomas are causing significant discomfort or functional impairment.

See also

• Lipoma
• Tumor
• Adipose tissue